Australia and Tuvalu reached a new security agreement that addresses concerns about sovereignty after a previous pact gave Australia veto power over Tuvalu’s agreements with other countries. The new memorandum of understanding between the two nations was established to alleviate worries about the Australian veto power. Tuvalu’s new Prime Minister, Feleti Teo, and Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong committed to this new agreement, which aims to protect the interests of Tuvalu.
The new leadership in Tuvalu, under Prime Minister Teo, has expressed a commitment to maintain diplomatic relations with Taiwan instead of Beijing. The previous Prime Minister, Kausea Natano, had signed a treaty with Australia last year that would allow up to 280 Tuvaluans to be resettled in Australia annually. This agreement also included provisions for Australia to assist Tuvalu in times of natural disasters, pandemics, and military aggression. However, critics raised concerns about the clause giving Australia veto power over Tuvalu’s security agreements with other countries, including China.
The new agreement between Australia and Tuvalu does not make substantial changes to the previous treaty but aims to address the concerns raised by the Tuvaluan government. Meg Keen, from the Lowy Institute, stated that the provisions related to the veto power were intended to ensure effective responsiveness and coordination during crises, rather than impede Tuvalu’s sovereignty. The agreement includes provisions for either party to withdraw if they feel the understanding is not being honored.
Australia also announced an investment of over $72 million in Tuvalu’s priority projects, including funding for the country’s first undersea telecommunications cable. This investment is part of a broader effort by the United States and its allies to counter China’s growing influence in the South Pacific region, particularly in security matters. Campaign issues in Tuvalu’s January election included the question of whether the country should switch its diplomatic allegiance from Taiwan to Beijing. Prime Minister Teo confirmed that his government will maintain ties with Taiwan despite pressure from China.
Overall, the new security agreement between Australia and Tuvalu addresses concerns about sovereignty and seeks to ensure effective coordination during crises. The investment from Australia into Tuvalu’s infrastructure projects demonstrates a commitment to the country’s development and security. The agreement is part of broader efforts by the United States and its allies to counter China’s influence in the region. Despite pressure to switch allegiance from Taiwan to Beijing, Tuvalu’s new leadership under Prime Minister Teo has affirmed its commitment to maintaining diplomatic relations with Taiwan.
